Hawaii Senate Bill SB1615

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/23
• Refer: 1/30/23
• Refer: 1/31/23
• Report Pass: 2/17/23
• Report Pass: 3/3/23
• Refer: 2/17/23
• Engrossed: 3/7/23
• Refer: 3/9/23

Caption

Relating To The Department Of Health.

Impact

If enacted, SB1615 could significantly reshape the landscape of healthcare support available for residents with dual diagnoses. By allowing individuals with an intellectual or developmental disability alongside a mental illness to qualify for Medicaid waivers, the bill seeks to ensure that more individuals receive needed assistance. This legislative change would potentially enhance mental health services, reduce barriers to care, and promote well-being among affected individuals, who may otherwise be left without adequate resources.

Summary

Senate Bill 1615 aims to amend the eligibility criteria for the Home and Community-Based Services Medicaid Waiver in Hawaii to include individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities who also have comorbid mental illnesses. The bill was introduced to address concerns raised about existing administrative rules that classify individuals as ineligible if their impairments are attributed to a range of mental and neurological conditions but have an underlying eligible intellectual disability. The intention of this measure is to broaden access to essential services for those who require support due to both developmental disabilities and associated mental health challenges.

Contention

While the bill is poised to provide expanded access to critical services, it may face scrutiny regarding the implementation and fiscal implications of expanding the Medicaid waiver program. Concerns typically arise about the financial burden on state budgets, particularly relating to the appropriations included in the bill. Additionally, some stakeholders may express apprehension about the adequacy of funding and resources available to effectively support the increased population of eligible individuals, prompting debates around the sustainability of such funding measures.